Taste of Sinharaja: Tea, Kithul Treacle & Local Food in Lankagama
The Taste of Sinharaja is defined by fragrant Ceylon tea, traditional kithul treacle and jaggery, and hearty local dishes enjoyed after a day of adventure.
Exploring waterfalls and rainforest trails in Lankagama is only half the story, the other half is on your plate and in your cup. The Taste of Sinharaja is defined by three things: fragrant Ceylon tea, traditional kithul treacle and jaggery, and hearty local dishes enjoyed after a day of adventure.
Ceylon Tea: High Grown to Low Grown
Sri Lanka is world-famous for Ceylon tea, divided into high grown, mid grown and low grown categories depending on elevation. High-grown teas are bright, aromatic and delicate, while low-grown teas are stronger, darker and richer in flavour. In the wider Sinharaja region, you often find teas that combine the brisk character of upland teas with the fuller body of low-grown ones, creating a balanced, satisfying cup, perfect after a chilly rainforest morning.
Kithul Treacle & Jaggery
Equally iconic is kithul treacle and jaggery, made from the sap of the kithul palm (Caryota urens), which is slowly reduced into a thick, smoky, caramel-like syrup or solid jaggery. This natural sweetener is a central part of Sri Lankan heritage and is often used in traditional desserts, New Year sweets, and even Ayurveda. In a rainforest setting, pairing fresh fruit, buffalo curd, or pancakes with pure kithul treacle turns a simple dessert into a truly local experience.
Authentic Lankagama Food Experience
A good Lankagama food experience ties everything together, warm rice dishes, spicy curries, fresh river fish, seasonal vegetables, and comforting kottu or noodles for the evening. After rafting, hiking or waterfall tours, guests can slow down at Sinharaja Eliphinity Restaurant, enjoy tea, sample kithul-based desserts, and feel the contrast between wild adventure and homely comfort.
When your visit to Sinharaja includes both nature and flavour, the memories last longer. The food, tea and kithul from Lankagama are not just items on a menu; they are part of the rainforest story you take back home. Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavours.
